Strategies for the best resolution possible in complex divorce situations

Tips for handling the holidays with a divorce in process

On behalf of Law Office of Virginia Geiss posted in divorce on Monday, November 21, 2016.

Going through a divorce is hard, but it can be downright devastating during the holidays. You are essentially splitting up two extended families, and if you've become close, it could be awkward to say the least. Still, there are things you can do to make your holidays a little bit easier.

Put the divorce on hold ... sort of

No, you shouldn't wait to file documents or to give information to your attorney, but it's OK to take a break for a few days and to stop talking about your divorce with the people around you. The holidays are supposed to be a time of celebration, so take this time to celebrate what you do have and focus on giving yourself a break.

Focus on the future during the holidays instead of worrying about the present. Once the holidays pass, you can get back to negotiations or court dates with a refreshed mind.

Choose to spend time with those you love

While you might need to make an appearance at your soon-to-be ex's family dinner to drop off your kids or you might have been invited to spend time with them, it's OK to bow out when you've had enough. Take time during the holidays to be with your family and friends. Focus on your kids and their needs, and put the frustration or anxiety of a divorce behind you for a while.

The holidays should be refreshing, so spend time only with people you know you can talk to or feel comfortable around unless you don't have a choice. If you have to see someone who isn't kind to you or be in a situation where you feel awkward, you can make plans to leave early if necessary.

Make the holidays about your mental and physical health

You might not want to be alone during the holidays or that might be your only wish. Whatever you want to do should be at the forefront of your mind. Besides the needs of your kids, your mental and physical health comes first. If that means taking a break from everything and going on a short trip away or forgoing a Christmas dinner, so be it.

Taking these tips into consideration can help you manage the holidays. Once you get through them, you can get back to a normal daily lifestyle and work through the divorce negotiations without having to be concerned about how it'll affect your Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year.

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